Senate Bill 2683 aims to address the issue of period poverty in Tennessee by implementing two key provisions. First, it introduces a tax exemption for the sale of feminine hygiene products, which includes items such as tampons and sanitary napkins. This exemption is intended to alleviate the financial burden on individuals who menstruate, thereby promoting better access to necessary hygiene products.
Second, the bill mandates that public schools provide feminine hygiene products free of charge to students upon request from school administrators. This provision ensures that students have access to these essential products, which can significantly impact their health, well-being, and educational opportunities. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, emphasizing the importance of addressing period poverty to foster educational equity and support the health of students across the state.